RICHMOND – All 36 Virginia State Parks remain open to the public. The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, managers of the park system, have received numerous inquiries from the public concerned that the state parks are being affected by the federal government shutdown. False Cape State Park in southern Virginia Beach is the only Virginia State Park affected. Primary access to the park is through the federal Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which is closed because of the shutdown.

“All Virginia State Parks remain open for business during this prime fall season,” said DCR’s State Parks Director Joe Elton. “Schedules have not changed, reservations are being honored, and all programs remain intact. False Cape remains open, although it can now only be accessed through North Carolina or by boat across Back Bay.”

October marks the beginning of a busy fall, leaf viewing season for the state parks. Foliage is beginning to turn in the western part of the state, particularly at higher elevation parks such as Grayson Highlands in Grayson County or Douthat State Park near Clifton Forge. Cabins at 16 parks statewide and campgrounds at 24 state parks are popular attractions during the fall leaf viewing season. More than 500 miles of state park hiking, bicycling and equestrian trails offer visitors the opportunity to view the fall foliage and outdoor scenery at their own pace.

For more information on Virginia’s 36-award winning Virginia State Parks call toll-free 1-800-933-PARK (7275) or go to www.virginiastateparks.gov.